In the height of summer, the SAT and ACT may be the farthest things from your mind, but this is actually the perfect time to be thinking about test prep, no matter where you are in the admissions process.
Focus all of your attention on test prep for a short period of time to maximize your score improvement
Without being overwhelmed by school, carve out a day or two per week to focus on test prep. That way, you can relax, knowing you’ve got plenty of time to improve while your brain is fresh and well-rested.
Or, if you’ve got a busy summer with a week or two free, give yourself a little test prep workshop where you dedicate all of your brainpower to testing. You’ll be amazed at the improvement you can achieve when you’re not also thinking about Algebra 2 and AP tests and everything else.
Students who work better under pressure might find this schedule works best for how they learn. There’s no right or wrong way to prepare, but don’t let a golden opportunity pass you by!
Be prepared for the PSAT to increase your chances at making National Merit
The PSAT happens in October, but the school year begins rolling in at full speed. It can pass in such a blur that it’s the end of September before you can even say “National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Exam.”
However, the National Merit Scholarship program is a great opportunity for strong test takers to guarantee lots of money for college ready to go by the end of junior year.
Feel confident about the PSAT and your future before the new semester even starts by getting ahead on test prep now.
Incoming Juniors: Take your tests in summer and fall so you have plenty of time to make a strong college list
It probably feels way too early to be thinking about test prep when you haven’t even taken the PSAT, but securing test scores early puts you in a great position when you start building your building your college.
You can look for schools where your scores give you an advantage on admissions AND merit aid.
If you don’t quite feel ready for a summer or fall test after all? That’s ok! Our Comprehensive courses are good for an entire year, so you can always come back when you’re ready!
Incoming Seniors: Try one more time for a super score, or add a last-minute score for test-preferred colleges on your list
Are you building your college list and freaking out a little bit that your super score isn’t quite good enough? Or maybe you’re realizing you do need a test after all for one of your dream schools?
Never fear! Jump in on a test in August or September to round out your application and feel confident about your scores with a bit more test prep.
Wherever you are in your college application process, summer test prep is the best time to guarantee your SAT and ACT success.
Taking the July ACT? Be ready in just one week with our ACT Sprint course!
Or preparing for the August SAT? Try out our SAT Comprehensive course to be prepared for anything the test might throw your way.
Want more insight into when, why, and how to take a college admissions exam? Download our Insider’s Guide to the SAT and ACT to find everything you need!

